Federation Cup 2011 First Semi Final: Salgaocar lucky to beat Lajong

Despite all odds tipped against Shillong Lajong FC, it was a stellar show by the North Eastern boys which they bravely put up in front of i-League Champions Salgaocar SC but thanks to a late strike by ex-Mohun Bagan forward Chidi Edeh, Karim Bencherifa's side had the last laugh. It was Shillong Lajong FC who had dogs share of possession in the first half, they controlled the game with good number of short passes but failed to make any impact of that amount of possession as they missed the final delivery. The first half scoreline read goalless for both teams.

Chidi Edeh's late strike takes
Salgaocar SC to the Finals

With the pressure on Salgaocar SC to break the deadlock, Salgaocar started the proceeding with some brisk attacks in the Lajong box but the North Eastern side defended well to avoid any casualties. Lajong came back to their possession play with quick passes all around. It was Salgaocar who was gifted a golden opportunity to gain the lead when Japanese forward Ryuji Sueoka found himself with a one on one against Lajong FC custodian Lalthuammawia Ralte but Sueoka's shot was palmed away by Ralte. Lajong at one moment looked destined for an upset with several attacks at the Salgaocar SC goal but Indian International Karanjeet Singh was up to his mark making several good saves. It was Liberian born John Menyongar who played with Luciano Sarbosa lead Salgaocar defence with his twist and turns. As the game seemed destined to go for extra time, Chidi Edeh turned the game on its head when he came close to connect from Juniors pass, Shillong Lajong FC goalkeeper came off his line but failed to grab the ball and Chidi Edeh managed to lob the ball over the Goalkeeper and a defender, eventually leading to a goal. The goal came in the 89th minute which meant that Pradhyum Reddy's team did not have enough time to score the equalizer and Salgaocar SC advanced to the finals of 33rd Edition of Federation Cup. Salgaocar SC will be facing the winners of East Bengal and Prayag United in the finals.

About
Debraj Banerjee

Hi, I am Debraj Banerjee from Adra, West Bengal. A keen follower of Indian football and always an optimist that the game will get the recognition it truely deserves. What we ask from you is your support and one day the dream might turn true. Fingers crossed for Indian football. Cheers!